The New York Knicks have taken the turn around. There is change happening, or more to the point there is change once Jordan Clarkson, one of the NBA most exciting third unit scorers is on board along with Mike Brown going to send the system in a spin. There was no tweaking in this summer. It was to make inefficiencies as weapons. And on top of it, they got Clarkson and Yabusele and a new vision of coaching, so the Knicks are looking deeper, sharper and hungrier than ever.
Coach Mike Brown in charge, bench scoring overhaul underway
This summer, the Knicks didn’t waste any time in reshaping their roster. They added Jordan Clarkson, a solid spark off the bench, which helped them fix a major flaw—bench production—that affected them in the 2024‑25 postseason. Clarkson averaged a notable 16.2 points with Utah last season, even with some missed games due to plantar fasciitis and a career-low shooting percentage of 40.8 percent. Nevertheless, his reputation as a microwave scorer is still strong: he’s racked up more bench points than anyone else in the last five years.With Clarkson’s arrival, Mike Brown has been hired as the head coach. He officially takes charge with the task of improving an offense that was stagnant under Tom Thibodeau, aiming for more ball movement and a higher frequency of 3-point shots. Brown will lead a team that features Jalen Brunson, Mikal Bridges, OG Anunoby, and Karl-Anthony Towns, along with the newly acquired Guerschon Yabusele. The leadership is focused on achieving a good balance between star players and essential depth.The Knicks have made some smart financial decisions. They brought in Clarkson for a veteran’s minimum and used the taxpayer mid-level exception to sign Yabusele for two years at $12 million, spending under $8 million to boost their rotation. Now, they’re just below the second salary cap apron, which leaves room for a couple of veteran minimum signings to finalize their 14-man roster.Also Read: Indiana Pacers confirm Tyrese Haliburton will miss 2025–26 NBA season after torn achilles in game 7 lossWith Clarkson delivering quick points, Yabusele offering size and shooting ability, and Brown gearing up to transform the approach, the Knicks have established a foundation for a deeper, more dynamic squad. The Eastern Conference powerhouse is clearly showing it’s not content with just being good—it’s reaching for greatness.
